IMPACT: International Journal of Research in

Humanities, Arts and Literature (IMPACT: IJRHAL)

ISSN(E): 2321-8878; ISSN(P): 2347-4564
Vol. 3, Issue 2, Feb 2015, 1-20
Impact Journals

THE CORRELATION BETWEEN ORPHANAGES INTERIOR DESIGN

AND CHILDRENS PSYCHOSOCIAL ADAPTATION
LAILA ALQHTANI
Al Rabwa Orphanage, Riydh

ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study is to understand the correlation between orphanages interior design and the psychosocial
adaptation of children (orphans) and the extent of orphanages ability to meet their needs. This study uses descriptive analysis
and examines the orphanage and its orphans and their activities. This study examined 20 employees, called surrogate mother
interviewing them and asking their opinion regarding interior design and how the lighting, colors, or walls or supplementary
equipment and accessories used. The study also considered the employees and surrogate mother levels of education and
experience.
The data were fully treated through a psychosocial adaptation scale prepared by the researcher and were obtained
from the participants through private meetings. The data analysis, however, was handled by the SPSS statistical program.
The results show that employees with a university degree (bachelors) and five to 10 years of experience were more effective
in helping orphans adjust psychosocially, this being linked to the interior design of the orphanage, which facilitated their
adaptation. The findings draw our attention to the developmental, psychological, and social needs of orphans with regard to the
interior design of orphanages that allow their better adaptation.

KEYWORDS: Psychosocial Dimension of Interior Design, Psychosocial Adaptation, Orphanages, Al Rabwa Orphanages in
Riyadh KSA, Orphans

INTRODUCTION
Dwellings are considered among the most important necessities that provide dignity to people in general and to
orphans specifically. Orphans sleep and live in their dwelling and eat most of their meals there; it is a refuge from the stress of
the day and they can take care of their personal needs there.
A dwelling is therefore a building people go to for shelter that contains all the necessities, conveniences, equipment,
appliances, and devices that they need or desire in order to be healthy in body and spirit, along with their families.
The dwelling is also a shelter or protected space in which people can be sheltered from outside influences (Afifi, 1998).
As stated by Shibani (1992:72),
"Care of orphans in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has increased, and children without familial care have received
special attention. Plans and programs have been established, expanded and improved to provide more care and
attention to these children as work takes place to provide services which are needed in such institutions".

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Laila Alqhtani

Development strategies and their plans and programs have focused on improving the state of Saudi individuals in all
aspects, beginning with childhood, since children are considered the core of society. Considerable effort has therefore been
made to provide individuals opportunities so that they may enjoy their foundational rights. A healthy beginning starts with a
sound familial and social environment, allowing children to actively participate later on in the development and stability of
their society and nation and in the promotion of Islam. However, if a childs natural family, for certain reasons,
does not provide him or her with what is needed to satisfy most of the childs social and psychological needs, then the state
must take the initiative and perform its role by taking the place of the natural family as much as possible. The state thus
provides some of what the child has been denied by taking on the role of protector and provider of shelter to children in special
circumstances, that is, those who have not been provided with sound familial care (Afifi, 1998; Radadi, 2003:2528, 33).
In addition, the 16th article of the eighth development plan (14251430, or 20042009 AD) contains a program that
deals with the care of orphans through four social protection roles; 12 orphanages for social education, for both boys and girls;
and two model social education institutions. The plan discusses number of individuals who would benefit from the care of
orphans (1912) in 1423 (2002 AD) and the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs presented a group of non-institutional
services for caring for orphans as part of a family care program. To improve the quality of services, the plan encourages the
progress of social institutions (Afifi, 1998).
Childrens sound social upbringing is tied to being in a family setting that meets their needs and allow them to
develop. It is also tied a nurturing relationship with their mother or surrogate mother in their early years to meet their
emotional needs; the lack of such a relationship in a childs early years typically leads to behavioral problems, since children
act out when they lack security and a sense of belonging and are prone to withdrawal or aggressive responses. Bowlby (1952)
and Mahdi (1991) pointed out that children deprived of parental care manifest a number of symptoms, including anxiety,
indifference, and aggression.
It is also clear that housing institutions did not fulfill their duties in important areas related to the childrens
psychological needs (Afifi, 1998). Mahdi (1991) mentioned that institutions caring for orphans had succeeded in satisfying
their physical needs but had failed in one degree or another to satisfy their various psychosocial needs. This leads to numerous
issues, such as a lack of psychological compatibility with self and others.
Chawla (2003) concluded that adjusting childrens behavior teaching them to protect their environment from an early
age have a significant impact on their environment, since they then enjoy it to a greater degree. Mahdi (1991) indicated that
most environmental problems are problems of behavior and values and that, when dealing with these issues with a child,
one must begin with the goal of developing the childs path in life, thoughts, and values. These then have a positive impact on
the childs direct environment, such as the childs house and yard, leading to successful psychosocial adaptation and a sense of
security. Based on this, these housing institutions need more research to determine the problems in the social upbringing of
orphans; the methods, forms, and treatment types used to overcome these problems; and the ways to develop the services
offered.
Researchers must therefore focus on these children to address and overcome their problems, especially given a
Muslim society. The Muslim religion calls for social solidarity and close family ties, which are the core cultural foundations of
Muslim society. Care for this segment of Saudi society begins with the principles of Sharia law, since Islam is a religion of
solidarity. Therefore, society must care for its individuals in certain ways (Afifi, 1998; Saadallah, 1990).
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The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

Motivated by the lack of sufficient scientific knowledge of the social adjustment, this study contributes to the
literature by examining these changes. The importance of this study lies in uncovering these changes. The researcher hopes
that the results of this study will benefit this deprived segment of society through recommendations regarding the development
of programs for orphans and an increase in their effectiveness. The study aims to do so in such a way that it aids in forming
therapeutic plans that help these children to adjust psychosocially in a sound manner and to face problems moving from one
institution to another.
The social services profession serving children in general and special needs children in particular has worked with the
belief that orphans is a part of society and that, by caring for and raising them, they become capable of participating in the
development of society and the economy, just like every other member of society (Afifi, 1998). For that reason, this study is
important because its subject has not been significantly raised by Saudi researchers, especially with regard to children with
special needs who are in the middle or end of childhood or at the beginning of adolescence. This type of study is also
considered very important by the Ministry of Social Affairs, especially with regard to orphans, who make up a high percentage
of residents in social institutions, reaching 33% at the Riyadh Social Protection Home in 1427 (2006 AD). The rate reached
100% at the Social Guest House for Orphans in 1427 (2006 AD), according to data collected by the researcher from their files
in 1427 (2006 AD). Hence the importance of this study to attempt to mitigate the negative impacts either on the orphans or on
the community as much as possible, to find methods of discipline that focus on caring for orphans, and to choose the best and
most appropriate to benefit the individual.
Rogers, Diana Es.(1994) and Tanner, et.al. (2003) studied the nature of the interior design of orphanages and
identified some essential conditions for orphanage buildings and their equipment. The first of these conditions has to do with a
healthy climate for the children that encourages them to be active (Saadallah, 1990). The second involves the childrens safety
and avoidance of danger. The third regards their living situation and the kind of social setting in which they are cared for,
for example, an urban setting. There are also conditions related to the characteristics and components as well as the equipment
of orphanage buildings, including essential criteria for the rooms inside the building. It must be noted that the childrens rooms
are of great importance, in terms of their size to accommodate various numbers of children, good lighting and ventilation,
and security, protection, and health and safety provisions. The rooms must also have low windows that open outward through
which the children can look out onto open spaces with courts and plazas. In addition, the wall paint must be safe and the rooms
must be connected to bathrooms of appropriate size for the children (Mahdi, 1991; Zaghini, 1997).
In addition, the orphanage must have large playroom, other rooms for different activities, and a clinic and a rest
center; the building must also contain a changing room and appropriate, connected bathrooms. There must be green spaces,
as well as a large number of toys, large and small, for the children (UNESCO International Handbook, 1992).
The rooms must be large and appropriate for children, approximately 1015 meters squared, and the furniture should
be well organized, allowing children to move around freely, and set up so that children can participate in group and individual
activities. The size and amount of furniture should also be appropriate to the children (Mahdi, 1991; Said, 1987).
In addition, the furniture must be comfortable, well made, and easy to clean and should encourage children to rely on
themselves, given that the chairs are light and easy for children to carry and move. As such, the toys should be placed on low
shelves so that the children can reach them easily without climbing on chairs or tables. Door handles must also be easy for the
children to reach and use (Mostafa, 2000; Saadallah, 1990).
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The floors must also be covered so that they stay warm and the rooms must be welllit, well ventilated, and easy to
clean. The childrens rooms should be decorated attractively and each child should have his or her own space to organize as
desired (Mahdi, 1991; Zaghini, 1997). This is very important, since children being self-focused, should have a space for their
personal belongings (Zaghini, 1997).This also teaches children about personal property and the importance of general property
(Said, 1987). There must also be designated rooms for sick children. There should also be reception rooms, reception rooms
for guardians, and waiting rooms for family meetings (Ahmer, 1424; Mahdi, 1991).
Health equipment must be at a low level and accessible and appropriate to the children, preferably close to their
rooms. There must also be an appropriate place for the children to eat meals together and the orphanages yard must be
equipped with outdoor toys that allow for the childrens muscular development, such as slides, equipment to climb on,
and sandboxes and areas for animals and plants (Ahmer, 2003).

Based on the researchers study of the current situation with regard to orphans and her specialization in the interior
design of orphanages, it is her opinion that the most important components of an orphanages interior design are as
follows: The types of the floor coverings and their effect on childrens security and safety.

Children spend a lot of their time on the ground as they participate in various activities, especially games.
Therefore, one must be careful to choose the type of floor covering that allows for comfort and health and which also
adds to the rooms beauty and dcor. This relates to the components of interior design and includes a number of
choices:

Wood Panel Flooring: This is composed of wooden boards that fit together and are attached to the ground by nails or
small tiles 2330 cm long and 47.5 cm wide, designed to be attached with hidden nails. Despite the fact that wooden
paneling is attractive, easy to wipe and clean, and can be easily painted, it also creates echoes
(Saadallah, 1990; Zaghini, 1997).

Plastic Flooring: This is among the best type of flooring, does not crack, is soft, and does not echo.

Vinyl with Cork Lining: Such flooring is easy to clean, smooth, warm, has a catchy look, and comes in natural
colors.

Vinyl Tiles: These are easy to wipe and wash, are long lasting, and come in many colors and designs.

Linoleum: This material resembles vinyl and comes in tiles or rolls (Saadallah, 1990).

Carpets and Rugs: These are comfortable and absorb sounds, and come in many colors that are different from but it
in harmony with wall colors. However, they are not stain or dirt resistant and can be a breeding ground for insects and
bacteria, which are a health threat to children. This is especially the case for wall-to-wall carpets or cotton carpeting.

Ceramic Tiles: These are available in many colors, are safe, and come in many sizes; they are very economical and
easy to clean. However, they are dangerous for children, especially during playtime, since children over six years old
tend to jump over each other and are more active. Because of this, they need soft flooring that is safe and secure (Aid,
2004; Saadallah, 1990).

Child psychologists believe that the best flooring option in childrens rooms is thick, smooth rugs that are also
available in different sizes throughout the house. This fits in with the active nature of children as they sit, play, study,
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The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

and sleep. The most appropriate choice for children six years old and over is a vinyl floor with a synthetic plastic
interior, since it is easy to move around and clean (Ahmer, 2003; Said, 1987).

Lighting is a simple concept. However, it is more complex when used as decoration. Lighting completely changes a
setting and gives it broad aesthetic dimensions.

Wall coverings. Attention to the proper care of walls and their appropriate design are no less important than the
proper treatment of ceilings and floors. Internal walls may be covered in the following ways:

Paint.

Wood.

Wallpaper (Said, 1987).

Based on the above, the following conditions regarding safe dwellings must be mentioned:

Proper Ventilation, Lighting, and Heating: Sufficient ventilation, lighting, and heating must be available in every
part of the orphanage, according to established health criteria.

Noise Reduction: The dwelling must be a calm environment. This is accomplished through various methods, such as
choosing a site far from factories and high-traffic roads.

Sufficiently Large Surface Area: Minimum standards must be set for spaces and surface areas, especially with
regard to the number of bedrooms, sitting rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens.
The remainder of the paper comprises the research, that is, a study of the relationship between the interior design of

orphanages and orphans psychosocial adaptation.

Research Topic
The research topic is motivated by the fact that the interior design of orphanages has not been up to the standards
necessary to meet a childs developmental, psychological, social, entertainment, and disciplinary needs, due to the fact that the
employees in charge of the interior design lack scientific knowledge and viable experience in the culture of childhood and its
demands.
Research Questions
This study seeks to answer the following questions. Is there a correlation between the internal system of orphanages
(e.g., colors, decorations, and types of curtains, lighting, ceilings, wall coverings, flooring) and psychosocial adaptation?
This question is asked in conversation with regard to certain factors, quantifying the correlation between different domains.
Is there a correlation between changes in psychosocial adaptation (daily life skills, integration, and physical, psychological,
social, and disciplinary dimensions)and differences in employee education, age, and experience?
Research Goals
The goal of this research is to understand the correlation between the interior design of orphanages and the
psychosocial adaptation of orphans who suffer from a lack of viable familial surroundings. This will be accomplished as
follows:
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Laila Alqhtani

By understanding how appropriate the interior design is for these orphans, despite the lack of scientific knowledge
and experience on the part of the orphanages employees.

By studying the relationship between the interior design of the orphanage and orphans psychosocial adaptation and
how well the structure meets their needs.

Research Importance
The importance of this research can be stated through the following contributions:

Bringing the orphans developmental psychosocial adaptation needs to the attention of those in charge of the interior
design of orphanages and making them aware of these childrens needs.

Participating in laying a foundation for the interior design of the orphanage buildings and rooms based on the
development and disciplinary goals of childhood.

Emphasizing the importance of the relationship between the educational and experience levels of the employees and
between the interior design of the orphanage and its impact on the childrens psychosocial adaptation.

Study Limitations
The study is limited by the following criteria:

Location, as part of the Social Protection Orphanage in Al Rabwa, Riyadh, with 12 houses, the sample study site
being Villa 3 in the district of Riyadh.

Time, that is, the period allowed by the Ministry of Social Affairs for visiting the orphanage to carry out the study.

Number of people, orphans and employees at the Al Rabwa orphanage (the case study).

Study Terminology
The following definitions were used in the study.

Theoretical definition of orphanage: This is the house that was designed and prepared to serve the developmental,
psychological, physical, mental, social, and recreational needs of the orphans. This relates to the extent to which the
building is suitable for its original goals, the right choice of a site, attention to proper design criteria in the buildings
rooms, the suitability of the furniture for study and play, given the childrens age, size, and demands
(Atia, 1995;Mostafa, 2000).

Working definition of orphanage: This is the Orphanage of Al Rabwa, where orphans live and are cared for.
These orphans have been designated as having special needs (unknown parents) such that they have not been
provided with sound care in a family or in normal society. This orphanage was founded to fully provide for an
appropriate psychosocial climate for these children, in addition to complete shelter, fulfilling the role of their natural
families as much as possible. As such, the orphanage provides the children appropriate health, social, psychological,
educational, and recreational support. The Office of Housing Protection, part of the General Office for the Protection
of Orphans, is in charge of this orphanage.

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The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

Working definition of the psychosocial adaptation of orphans: This involves orphans feelings of psychosocial
comfort as they undergo the highest possible level of physical, psychosocial, and integrative adaptation and
participate in daily life with complete ease. If such is the case, then the institutions educational goals have been
reached.

Working definition of interior design: This term refers to the appropriateness of the following: the arrangement of the
furniture and its ease of movement; how easy it is to participate in activities; the design of the walls, ceilings,
flooring, hallways, open spaces, lighting, and furniture; and the use of different services to serve the orphans.

Theoretical definition of interior design: This involves the environment of the orphanage with regard to its internal
building structure and its different components, including the flooring, furniture, walls, ceilings, and the use of
various services suited to its natural and structural characteristics in light of their expected need. All these elements
are focused on meeting the various needs of the children in a sound manner (Atia, 1995).

The Sample
Table 1 reports the number of those involved in the orphanage in the
Table 1: The Number of Orphans and Employees Studied at the Orphanage city of Riyadh (Social Protection Home of Al
Rabwa, comprising 12 villas) and all the orphans there.
Orphanage
Number of
Children
Number of
Employees
Total

10

11

12

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

20

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

50

50

50

50

50

50

50

50

50

50

50

50

The sample consists of the orphanage in the region of Riyadh, with 20 employees (see Table 2). The researcher was
granted access to all documents. This sample represents the orphans native society.
Table 2: The Study Sample
Subject

Number

Employees

20

Orphanage
Orphans in the
orphanage

1
35

Percentage of the
Whole Group
5.6% of all employees at
the orphanage
8.3%
14.6% of all orphans at
the Riyadh orphanage

Research Method
This study, to accomplish its goals, is basedon the descriptive analysis method, studying and analyzing the most
important comments and explanations given by employees to questions during visits to the orphanage. It also relies upon the
researchers analysis of the most important problems, based on diagrams and evaluations of suggestions for improving the
conditionsof the studied villas.
Research Process
The researcher went through the following steps to arrive at the desired results:
First Step: The Creation of Study Tools
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Laila Alqhtani

The following tools, designed by the researcher after her study of the theoretical literature and previous related
research, were used to gather research data:

Questionnaire on the interior design of the orphanage, prepared by the researcher.

Questionnaire on the psychosocial adaptation of the orphans, prepared by the researcher.

The instruments may be summarized as follows:
Questionnaire on the interior design of the orphanage.
Data connected with this research were collected on site, using a questionnaire. The information was gathered via

face-to-face interviews with the employees and the surrogate mothers.

Four main topics were covered:

Orphans housing and basic living needs;

Interior design of the orphanage;

Colors and decorations used in the interior design (open spaces);

Needs that must be met by the interior designto facilitate the orphans psychosocial adaptation.
The goal of the questionnaire, composed of 25 questions, on the interior design of the orphanage was to understand

the relationship between the interior design of the orphanage and the childrens psychosocial adaptation. The statements were
answered by choosing from among positive or negative statements.
Questionnaire Validation
The researcher validated the questionnaire in the following two ways.
First, by critics: The instrument was shown to experts specialized in psychology, special education, and behavioral
adaptation for validation. Therefore, a complete picture of the instrument was prepared, with clear goals and related
definitions.
Second, through the instruments internal coherence: The researcher studied the correlation coefficients among the
instruments questions and the entire group of questions, producing statistical proof of the each question (0.01), indicating the
internal coherence of the tools questions (see Table 3).
Table 3: Validation of the Questionnaire on the Interior Design of Orphanages through the
Internal Coherence of the Questions, Using Kendalls Correlation Coefficient
Questionnaire Topics
Orphans housing needs
Orphanages interior design
Quality of colors and decorations
used in the orphanage (open spaces)
Interior design criteria
Statistical significance: 0.01

Correlation Coefficient
0.721
0.602
0.816
0.591

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The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

Instrument Reliability
The instrument was prepared in its final version after its reliability was tested on a research sample.
The researcher analyzed Cronbachs alpha with acceptable results, indicating the reliability of the instrument, as shown in
Table 4.
Table 4: Reliability of the Questionnaires Dimensions, Based on Cronbachs Alpha
Instrument Questions
Orphans housing needs
Orphanages interior design
Quality of colors and
decorations used in the
orphanage (open spaces)
Interior design criteria
Statistical significance: 0.001

Number of
Questions
s

Alpha Value
0.864
0.735
0.836
0.639

Second Step: Criteria regarding Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

This study seeks to understand orphans psychosocial adaptation within orphanages and the questionnaire was
therefore centered on the following five main topics:

Daily Life Skills: 20 questions.

Integrative Dimension: 10 questions.

Psychological Dimension: 10 questions.

Social Dimension: 10 questions.

Disciplinary Dimension: 10 questions.

Pedagogical Dimension: 10 questions.

The statements were answered by choosing from among positive or negative statements. The researcher validated the

questionnaire in the following two ways.

First, by critics: The instrument was shown to experts specialized in psychology, special education, and behavioral
adaptation for validation. Therefore, a complete picture of the instrument was prepared, with clear goals and related
definitions.
Second, through the instruments internal coherence: The researcher studied the correlation coefficients among the
instruments questions and the entire group of questions, producing statistical proof of the significance level, indicating the
internal coherence of the instruments questions (see Table 5).
Table 5: Validation of the Internal Coherence of the Questions with Regard to the Criteria for
the Interior Design of Orphanages, Using Kendalls Correlation Coefficient
Criteria
Daily life skills
Integrative
Physical

Correlation
Coefficient
0.721
0.835
0.886

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Laila Alqhtani

Table 5: Contd.,
Psychological
0.733
Social
0.902
Disciplinary
0.583
Statistical
significance:
0.001
The instrument was prepared in its final version after having testing its reliability on a research sample.
The researcher analyzed Cronbachs alpha with acceptable results, indicating the reliability of the instrument, as shown in
Table 6.
Table 6: Reliability of the Different Criteria for the Childrens
Psychosocial Adaptation, Based on Cronbachs Alpha
Criteria
Daily life skills
Integrative
Physical
Psychological
Social
Disciplinary
Statistical
significance:
0.001

Correlation Coefficient
0.518
0.746
0.816
0.715
0.723
0.637

Third Step: By Statistical Analysis of the Data

After finishing preparatory work connected to the research data, including reviewing and editing all the research
forms to ensure data coherence, the datawere extracted, categorized, tabulated, and organized in preparation of the application
of appropriate statistical methods.

DISCUSSIONS
The family structure put into practice for the first time at the Social Protection Home in Al Rabwa completely
changed the childrens level of psychosocial stability and social adaptation. This was confirmed through the studies done on
the orphanage. It is also worth noting that the Social Protection Home of Al Rabwas villas were built in 1424 (2003 AD)
and consist of 12 housing units, or villas, each villa housing six children with a surrogate mother who lives with them 24 hours
a day. Note that the term villa, used commonly at the Ministry of Social Affairs, is very different from a traditional villa
(house, shelter). During days off, a replacement aunt visit the villas, as within a familial housing complex, since there is no
difference between the groups. There are no marks or informational signs above the gate of the complex, manned by a Saudi
security guard. This type of residential building significantly resembles the neighboring villas of normal people.
Al Rabwas villasare 12 separate housing units. Each one has a living room, a dining room, three bedrooms,
and a kitchen. Five to six orphans live in a walled villa. The children are of different ages and school years and live with their
surrogate mother and aunt, who provide for them emotionally, psychologically, and socially. Children participate in
entertainment and cultural activities as in any school building and use computers, playing in the playrooms, recreational room,
and an entertainment tent. Al Rabwa is a model for orphan villages throughout the world. The Ministry of Social Affairs thus
seeks to provide orphans a home with a family where they can develop and become accustomed to a natural family social

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The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

structure, of which they have been deprived for any number of reasons. The Ministry of Social Affairs also seeks to make
orphans active members of society in the future. The indoor environment of orphanage is set up, in a detailed manner,
in keeping with the case study done in this research.
This study was not exhaustive and its results can be summarized as follows, for discussion and description.
description
Question 1: Is there a correlation between the interior design of the orphanage (colors, decorations, type of curtains,
lighting, quality of ceilings, wall coverings, and type of flooring) and psychosocial adaptation (daily life skills, integration,
and physical,
hysical, psychological, social, and disciplinary dimensions)? This is analyzed via studying the correlation coefficients
among the different topics.

Table 7: Correlation
n Coefficients between Changes in the Interior Design of the
Orphanage and Topics Relating to Psychosocial Adaptation
Change

Colors

Daily life skills

Integrative
Physical
Psychological
Social
Disciplinary
Statistical
significance: 0.01

0.16
0.55
0.18
0.86
0.51
0.39

Decorations
and
Curtains
0.32
0.49
0.50
0.25

Lighting
0.34
0.76
0.64
0.56
0.71

Quality
of
Ceilings
0.23
-

Wall
Coverings

Type of
Flooring

0.41
0.19
0.28

0.83
0.63
0.26
0.81
-

Figure 1
Table 7 clearly shows a positive correlation at the 0.01 significance level between the colors and the psychological,
social, and disciplinary dimensions, with correlationsof 0.86, 0.51, and 0.39, respectively. In addition, there is a positive
correlation, though not at a significant level, between the colors and daily life activities and physical dimensions.
This is in agreement with the study of Gad, Madiha (1990),
(1990) who concluded that traditional methods of interior design,
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Laila Alqhtani

common in most of Riyadhs orphanages, have a negative effect, as seen in teachers inability to organize activities and
obstacles to childrens desired behavior.
It is also clear that there is a positive correlation at a significant level (0.01) between decorations and curtains and the
social, psychological, integrative, and disciplinary dimensions, with correlations of 0.25, 0.49, 0.32, and 0.50, respectively.
This affirms the importance of decoration and curtains in the interior design of orphanages in psychological and social factors.
It is also evident that there is a positive correspondence at a significant level (0.01) between lighting and the
integrative, disciplinary, physical, and psychological dimensions and daily life activities, with correlations of 0.76, 0.71, 0.64,
0.54, and 0.34, respectively. This points to the importance of lighting in the interior design of orphanages, since the correlation
between lighting and psychological adaptation is shown to be significant. For this reason, lighting must be considered in
interior design, since it facilitates orphans psychosocial adaptation.
Table 7 also indicates a positive correlation at a significant level (0.01) between the types of ceilings and the
psychological dimension, with a correlation of 0.23.
A positive correspondence is also significant (at the 0.01 level) between wall coverings and the integrative,
psychological, and disciplinary dimensions, with correlations of 0.41, 0.19, and 0.28, respectively. This indicates the
importance of ceiling coverings in orphans psychosocial adaptation. For this reason, ceiling coverings must be considered in
interior design to facilitate orphans psychosocial adaptation. This is consistent with the results of Tanner et al. (2003),
who conclude that the interior design of schools has an impact on students results and their level of understanding.
Finally, Table 7 shows a positive correspondence at a significant level (0.01) between the types of flooring and daily
life activities and the psychological, integrative, and physical dimensions, with correlations of 0.87, 0.81, 0.63, and 0.26,
respectively. This indicates the importance of the types of flooring in orphans psychosocial adaptation. For this reason,
flooring must be considered in interior design to facilitate orphans psychosocial adaptation. The data in Figure 1 show how
the correlations are related with the factors of the first hypothesis.
Data Figure 1
[no figure present in text]
Question 2: Is there a correlation between changes in psychosocial adaptation (daily life skills, integration,
and physical, psychological, social, and disciplinary dimensions) and differences in employee education, age, and experience?
Table 8: Correlation Coefficients between Changes in Psychosocial Adaptation and
Differences in Orphanage Employee Age and Education Levels
Change
Psychosocial
Adaptation
Daily life skills
Integrative
Physical
Psychological
Social
Disciplinary
Statistical
significance: 0.01

Secondary
Education
0.427
0.564
0.378
0.648
0.637
0.421

Level of Education
University
Higher
Education
Education
0.435
0.470
0.568
0.622
0.420
0.410
0.762
0.741
0.625
0.619
0.726
0.683

Less than
5 years
0.634
0.710
0.562
0.672
0.783
0.734

Experience
Between 5
and 10 years
0.763
0.658
0.745
0.754
0.742
0.745

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More than
10 Years
0.653
0.623
0.658
0.823
0.749
0.675

The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

13

Figure 2
Table 8 shows a positive correlation at a significant level (0.01) between differences in university education
(bachelors
achelors degree) and all changes regarding psychosocial adaptation. There is a significant relationship with an impact that is
clearly stronger than that of a high school or higher education. Thus, orphanage employees with bachelors degrees are
preferred so that they may significantly participate
part
in facilitating orphans psychological adaptation.
adaptation
It is also clear that there is a positive correlation at a significant level (0.01) between differences in the level of
practical experience (five to 10 years) and all changes
cha
related to psychosocial adaptation. The relationship is significant,
with an impact that is clearly stronger than that of experience under five years and over 10 years. This means that the
employees caring for orphans should have five to 10 years of experience so that they may participate
part
significantly in
facilitating orphans psychological adaptation (see Figure 2). Figure 2 [no figure present in text]
Research Recommendations
Through her studies of the research topics and by obtaining numerous results that accomplish the stated goals,
the researcher presents a number of recommendations, as follows:

Further field studies to understand the requirements of orphans and their various needs and to achieve an
appropriately designed living environment.
environmen

The
he use of plastic curtains in bathrooms and aluminum blinds in the kitchens to make them easy to clean and resistant
to humidity.

The importance of diversity in the floor covering and the use of vinyl or wood.
wood

As much attention as possible to access to sunlight through windows of appropriate sizes in appropriate locations.

REFERENCES
1.

Afifi, Ahmed Abdalatif, 1998. Objective Criteria for Furnishing Houses in Egyptian Society, PhD dissertation,
College of Fine Arts, Halwan University.

2.

Ahmer, Sliman bin Ibrahim, 1424 (2003 AD). Orphans Rights According to SuratInisa, Capital (Asma) Publishing
House.
Impact Factor(JCC): 1.3648 - This article can be downloaded from www.impactjournals.us

14

Laila Alqhtani

3.

Aid, HodabintAbdarahmen bin Saad, 2004. Interior Design of Childrens Rooms and Their Suitability for Daily
Activities, masters thesis, College of Education for Home Economics and Technical Education.

4.

Attia, SaeedShaheen (1995): interior design of the safe built environment for children, published research at Ain
Shams University's conference (child safety), Cairo, from 12 to 13 January.

5.

Bowlby, J., 1952. Child Care & Growth of Love, Penguin Books, London.

6.

Chawla, Louise, 2003. Bonding with the natural world: The roots of environmental awareness. NAMTA Journal 28.

7.

Gad, Madiha (1990): Standards for the preparation and evaluation of rooms' kindergarten children learn "a future
perspective," Master Thesis, Center for Childhood Studies, Ain Shams University- Cairo.

8.

International Handbook of Early Childhood Education, 1992. Early education in Japan New York: Garland of early
childhood. New York: Routledge in cooperation with UNESCO, 1992. 11.

9.

Mahdi, Ahmed Fouad, 1991. Interior Design for Children, PhD dissertation, College of Fine Arts, Alexandria
University, Alexandria.

10. Ministry of Social Affairs, 1423 (2002 AD). Catalogue of the King Fahed National Publication Library.
11. Mustafa, Mona (2000): a study on the interior design of the nursery Sharkia, unpublished Master Thesis, Faculty of
Home Economics, University of Menoufia.
12. Radadi, Oudh bin Bania, 1424 (2003 AD). Systems of Social Care in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ministry of
Employment and Social Affairs, Riyadh.
13. Rogers, Diana Es, (1994). Natures for ME Preschool Environment and Recycling Activity Guide for Teachers and
Parents.
14. Saadallah, Said MostafaKamel, 1990. Activities and Behavior in Public Living Spaces, masters thesis, Engineering
College, Cairo University.
15. Said, Thana, 1987. Indicators of Housing Interior Design according to Childrens Needs, presented at Children and
Development, KingAbdalaziz University, Department of Home Economics, Home Management and Housing Major,
Ministry of Planning, Part Six.
16. Shibani, Omar Mohammed Toumi, 1992. Among the Essentials of Caring for Arab Children, Publications of Fateh
University, Libya.
17. Tanner, et.al. 2003. "The Importance of Design Elements as They Relate to Students Outcomes ", Education, U.S.,
Georgia.
18. Zaghini, Mansour Salah, 1997. Creating a Special Role for Orphans, Catalogue of the King Fahed National Library,
to be published.

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15

The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

APPENDICES
The Questionnaire
General Data

Years of experience

Educational Qualifications

Secondary education.

University.

Higher education.

Years of Experience

Less than five years.

Between five and 10 years.

More than 11 years.

First: Criteria for the interior design to facilitate orphans psychosocial adaptation.
Orphans face numerous needs, some of which they all share, such as their period of development, and some of which
differ due to each individuals unique social situation.
The following table describes some of these needs. In your opinion, which are the important needs in the orphans
lives?
Table 9
Housing Needs

Provided

Number
1
2
3
4
5

Not Provided

Demands and essentials of

basic living needs
Increased awareness of life
demandsand cultural growth
Personal, social, and
physical assistance with
problems
Appropriate housing
Availability and
improvement of
communication methods

Second: Interior Design for Orphans.

Table 10
Number

Living Room

Bed Room Kitchen

Flooring Type

Bathroom

Hallway

Ceramic
Rug
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Study Room

16

Laila Alqhtani

Table 10: Contd.,

Vinyl
Marble
Carpet
Wood
Tile
Wax-sealed flooring
Wall Coverings
Oil-based paint
Water-based paint
Wallpaper
Wood paneling
Drawings of cartoon
characters
Porcelain ceramic
Ceramic
Ceiling Type
Normal
Crown molding
Raised ceiling
Speckled
Aluminum
Lighting
Wall lighting
Ground lighting
Personal desk lighting
General ceiling
lighting
Types of Curtains
Single sheet of
material
Metal sheets
Double-ply material
Plastic
Third: Preferences regarding the colors and decorations used in the interior design (open spaces).
Table 11

Light Colors

Dark Colors

Drawings of Nature

Colors and Decorations

Flooring
Yes No
Living room
Bedroom
Kitchen
Bathroom
Hallway
Study room
Living room
Bedroom
Kitchen
Bathroom
Table 11: Contd.,
Hallway
Study room
Living room

Walls
Yes No

Curtains
Yes No

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Ceiling
Yes No

17

The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

Pictures of Cartoon Characters

No Decorations

Bedroom
Kitchen
Bathroom
Hallway
Study room
Living room
Bedroom
Kitchen
Bathroom
Hallway
Study room
Living room
Bedroom
Kitchen
Bathroom
Hallway
Study room

Fourth: Safety and Security.

Table 12
Living
room
Yes
No

Bedroom
Yes

No

Kitchen
Yes

No

Bathroom
Yes

No

Study
Room
Yes No

Hallway
Yes

No

Rounded Edges on
Furniture
Window Protection
to Prevent Falling
Automatic Alarm
Devices
Fixed Flooring
(Immovable)
Protective Cover On
Electric Sockets
Good Ventilation Via
Windows
In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful
Psychosocial Adaptation Questionnaire, Final Version
Table 13
Number
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

Question
Daily Life Activities
I knock on doors when I enter rooms.
I make my bed when I wake up.
I brush my teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste after eating.
I wash my hands with water and soap in the sink before eating.
I put a napkin on my chest while eating meals.
The dining room table is in a comfortable and easilyaccessible
position.
Table 13: Contd.,
After having eaten, I put the plates in the kitchen.
After having eaten, I can easily throw away the garbage.
I clean the area after finishing a meal.

Yes

No

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18

Laila Alqhtani

10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
2
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
3
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
4
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
5
53
54
55
56
57
58

I sit down to eat meals in the dining room or the kitchen.

I can use the stove comfortably and easily.
I can easily use the kitchen sink when I wash dishes.
I can easily turn the faucet on and off.
The chairs in the sitting room are comfortable.
I dont find moving the chairs within rooms to be difficult.
I can easily walk on the rug (carpet) without tripping.
I can walk on the tiles without slipping.
I can use the toilet easily without any problems.
I can take a bath in the bathroom easily without any problems
with the water.
I can easily organize my clothes in the closet.
Integrative
I can easily watch television from my sitting area.
I watch television at a low volume.
I listen to the radio or portable devices at a low volume.
I dont bother others with noise.
I put toys back in their place once Im finished.
I play well with others without bothering them.
I can sit quietly in the living room with others.
I keep my clothes clean.
I put on pajamas before going to bed.
I organize my clothes in the closet.
I walk in the orphanage in a normal way.
Physical
I am always sick.
I feel pain in some parts of my body.
I suffer from pain in my stomach and insides.
I feel hot and tired in the summer.
I suffer from chills.
I feel fit with the orphanage.
My emotional state is stable.
Psychological
I feel comfortable and happy.
I have a hard time breathing.
I feel at peace because others understand my feelings.
I have lost faith in myself.
Its easy for me to get to know people.
I lose confidence faith in myself easily.
I feel comfortable.
I get angry easily.
I have goals and desires.
I feel my friends like me.
I generally feel sad.
I feel happy when I am in my room.
I feel alone when I am at the orphanage.
I feel proud that I live at the orphanage.
Social
I feel that people at the orphanage understand each other.
My relationship with my guardians is good.
My relationship with the other children is good.
I can make my friends happy.
Table 13: Contd.,
The society I live in encourages me with regard to my needs and
desires.
I take part in group activities.
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The Correlation between Orphanages Interior Design and Childrens Psychosocial Adaptation

59
60
61
62
63
64
65
6
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74

I like the orphanage where I live.

I interact with the social setting in which I live.
I feel free when getting to know people.
I feel dizzy when Im in my room.
Its easy for me to go from one place to another in the orphanage.
I dont fight much with others.
I enjoy participating in many of the entertainment and leisure
activities at the orphanage.
Disciplinary
I help others with their schoolwork.
I ask others to help me with some of my homework.
I put my bookbag in its place after school.
I write on the orphanages walls with markers.
I take care of the furniture at the orphanage.
I like the colors of the walls.
I do my work at my desk in my room.
I am comfortable with the lighting at the orphanage.
My closet is in a good location and is easy to reach.

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19